Sealants

Dr. Levin recommends the use of sealants to slow down the progression of tooth decay. A sealant is a thin, plastic coating applied to the chewing surface of molars, premolars and any deep grooves (called pits and fissures) of teeth. It has been found that more than 75% of dental decay begins in these deep grooves. The deep grooves in the teeth make them difficult to clean thus susceptible to decay. A sealant is helpful in protecting the tooth by sealing deep grooves, creating a smooth, easy to clean surface. Sealants can ward off decay for many years, but need to be checked for wear and chipping at regular dental visits.

Reasons for sealants:

• Children and teenagers – As soon as the six-year molars (the first permanent back teeth) appear or any time throughout the cavity prone years of 6-16.
• Adults – Tooth surfaces without decay that have deep grooves or depressions.
• Baby teeth – Occasionally done if teeth have deep grooves or depressions and child is cavity prone.

What do sealants involve?

Dr. Levin has a quick and painless process for applying sealant that only takes a couple of minutes per tooth. First, the teeth that are to be sealed are deep cleaned and then surrounded with cotton to keep the area dry. A special solution is applied to the enamel surface to help the sealant bond to the teeth. Then, the teeth are rinsed and dried. Sealant material is carefully painted onto the enamel surface to cover the deep grooves or depressions. Depending on the type of sealant used, the material will either harden automatically or with a special curing light.

Proper home care, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits will prolong the life of your new sealan